Indigenous jersey tells a story
In 2026, the School introduced its inaugural Indigenous Round jersey, the culmination of a collaborative design process involving boys, staff, and Aboriginal artist Mr Peter Jensen.
The design process brought together eight pupils representing rugby, football, volleyball, and cross country. Rather than developing separate designs for each sport, the group sought to create a single artwork that would unite every athlete under a shared story and demonstrate respect for Indigenous culture.
Through a series of lunchtime workshops, the boys contributed ideas, symbols, and themes that reflected the values and experiences of each sporting code. The workshops were guided by pupil-led discussion, with participants exploring concepts of Country, community, School values, history, and the legacy they hoped to leave for future generations. The final design reflects not one individualâs vision, but the collective voices and contributions of many.
Pictured: Lunchtime workshop with Aboriginal artist Mr Peter Jensen
Pictured in header: Volleyball Firsts
A major part of the process involved listening and learning. Alongside the support of Mr Klaus Ossowski, Mr Tyrone Smith, Mr Oliver Pike, and Mr Jordy Goddard, pupils worked closely with PJ, whose guidance ensured the artwork remained culturally respectful, authentic, and meaningful. Through these discussions, the boys developed a deeper understanding of Indigenous storytelling through art, where every symbol and pattern carries significance and reflects connections to people, place, and journey.
The resulting artwork tells a story that connects Sydney Grammar School to the land of the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation and reflects the values that unite the School community. The design unfolds across three interconnected layers, each representing a different aspect of place, identity, and belonging.
Pictured: Cross Country Senior
The lower section of the jersey represents Sydney Harbour, which was central to the life of the Gadigal people. Flowing throughout this layer is the mulloway fish, a species closely connected to the harbour and its waterways. This element acknowledges the enduring relationship between the Gadigal people and the natural environment that has sustained communities for generations.
The middle layer features three Gadigal shields that hold special significance for Sydney Grammar School. Together, they represent the Schoolâs three campuses at College Street, Edgecliff, and St Ives. Within each shield are symbols reflecting the three pillars of Grammar life: academics, sport, and music. Interwoven throughout this section are grass trees, an important symbol of the Gadigal people. In the local language, Gadigal is commonly understood as meaning âpeople of the grass treeâ. Their inclusion reflects both the cultural significance of the plant and the Schoolâs connection to the Country on which it stands.
The upper section of the design features traditional First Nations symbols representing people. Varying in size, these symbols illustrate the journey of young boys growing into young men and eventually becoming leaders within their communities. Together, they create a sense of belonging and continuity, linking current pupils with generations of Old Sydneians who have come before them and those who will follow.
Pictured: Original artwork design
âWe set out to create a design that celebrated the links between our locationâs Indigenous heritage and our Schoolâs own culture and identity. Across discussions with Indigenous artist Mr Peter Jensen, we learnt about Aboriginal culture and how it could be explored and communicated within our community.â
Shiv Nandan, Captain of Rugby
Pictured: Rugby First XV
At the heart of the story, and featured prominently on the back of the jersey, is the black cockatoo. Chosen through the consultation process, the bird carries special significance both culturally and symbolically. Bearing the Schoolâs colours and associated in many Aboriginal stories with carrying fire to people, the black cockatoo represents learning, legacy, and the passing of wisdom from one generation to the next.
Pictured: Original artwork design
Through the collective efforts of pupils, staff and PJ, the project has established a lasting legacy for Sydney Grammar School. It celebrates the stories of the Gadigal people while encouraging future generations of Grammar boys to learn from the past, contribute meaningfully in the present, and leave a positive legacy for those who follow.
Pictured: Football First XI
Mr Tyrone Smith Director of Rugby
Sydney Grammar School
College Street, Darlinghurst
NSW 2010 Australia
Phone: (02) 9332 5800
Edgecliff Preparatory School
Alma Street, Paddington
NSW 2021 Australia
Phone: (02) 9366 0100
St Ives Preparatory School
Ayres Rd, St Ives
NSW 2075 Australia
Phone: (02) 8302 5200
